ALOE VERA: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Not An Allergen Aloe Vera This vitamin-, antioxidant-, and moisture-rich wonder substance is an old, soothing favorite. It’s a staple as an anti-inflammatory for sunburn and eczema. Product manufacturers do not generally use the leaf’s outside but just the leaf centers, which might explain the low reaction rates to it. Do make sure to patch test it […]
HAIR DYE: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Allergen Hair Dye “Hair dye” is not on published allergen lists, but most hair dyes contain PPD or para-phenylenediamine, which is a staple in published allergen lists — — so much so that it was the American Contact Dermatitis Society‘s Allergen of the Year in 2006. Reactions occur where you’d expect them (on the scalp, for example, […]
GARLIC: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Allergen…and a Photo-Allergen! Garlic Might explain why vampires avoid it (and have such smooth complexions)! While garlic is delicious and has a long history of being used as a natural remedy, it contains allicin and diallydisulphide, which are both allergens. Garlic poultice (garlic made into a moist mass that is spread on cloth or skin) […]
I Need a Moisturizer But Have Acne!
Throw me a line…I need a moisturizer but have “bumpy” issues! You’re in luck! Because moisturizers spread easily and sit on the skin for a long time, and tend to be absorbed well, they’re a great way to hit two birds with one stone: moisturization plus active therapy! How to choose? These 3 rules won’t let you down: […]
Body Acne: Why?
Some people get acne on the body, such as on the chest, arms, back (“bacne”), posterior (“butt-ne”), and thighs. Acne on the body can be less of a pain because it’s easier to hide than acne on the face. If you have both, it can be doubly (triply!) frustrating. Some common causes of body acne: Body acne […]
Wave The “Wipe” Flag: Why You Should Give Up On Makeup Removing Wipes
Wipes are neat and quick…but for sensitive or acne-prone skin, they may not be worth the downsides. For Sensitive Skin, Residue Is a Resi-“Don’t.” Wipes cannot clean as well as makeup removers or cleansers, and usually leave residue. In addition to the acne/irritation risk, this residue normally includes leftover dirt. Wipes can rub you the […]
Beauty Trend: Old Hollywood Glam…With Hypoallergenic Makeup!
By Jess Arnaudin This look evokes feelings of old Hollywood glamour with a fresh and modern twist. The look is simple, and doesn’t feel overdone while also packing a high voltage pop of color. Products you’ll need: How To “Dew” It in 5 Steps: Step 1: Prep Skin With every makeup application I always tell […]
Summer Skin Tips: Sunscreen & Bumps
Many acne-prone people who live in very hot, humid, tropical climates wish they could skip the sunscreen to prevent major breakouts. It’s not an option, however: choose the right sunscreen to prevent bumps but don’t ever skip the sunscreen. Skin cancer is a real risk for all ages and all skin tones. Alex Goldyn is a […]
THEOBROMINE in Chocolate: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Not An Allergen. Theobromine (in Chocolate) Bromine is a halogen, which is a type of chemical that is found in several foods and other substances that can cause skin problems. Despite the similarity in the name, however, theobromine is not a halogen (it has only carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen, no bromine), and is not a common skin allergen. […]